Legal Consequences of Carrying a Fake ID

in Blog // (0) Comment

It is an undeniable fact that many college students either use or possess a fake ID while they are under the age of 21.  It is also a tradition for real driver’s licenses to be “passed on” to underage siblings or friends with the admonition “don’t get caught.” Unfortunately, the consequences can be severe when one’s luck runs out.

The charge of possession or manufacture of a fake ID or the alteration of or use of someone else’s real ID is a first degree misdemeanor in violation of O.R.C. 4510.33, which can carry a fine of up to $1,000 or 12 months in jail. In addition, a license suspension of up to one year can be imposed by the Ohio Bureau of Motor Vehicles on a violator or the owner of the real driver’s license who provided it to the underage student.

The usual sentence in Athens, Ohio for a student who is not able to participate in the Municipal Court’s diversion program is a fine between $150 and $250, with court costs of $104 and up to 90 days jail time, suspended on the condition that the student remains law abiding for two years and possibly completes a number of hours of community service. If the student has already completed a diversion program or has any jail time already suspended over his/her head for a prior violation of law, the court is quite likely to impose between two and five days of actual jail time on the offender. While a fake ID charge is normally able to be sealed or expunged in a year, if the offender has a prior conviction other than a minor misdemeanor, clearing one’s record may be impossible. Fortunately, for those students who have successfully completed the Court’s Diversion Program, the earlier charges will have resulted in a dismissal, which does not impact the effort to seal a subsequent conviction. Unfortunately, the court may treat a sole charge of “possession of false identification” as not eligible for the diversion program, thereby resulting in a conviction. In addition to the court consequences, a student possessing or using a fake ID would most likely be charged with a violation of the Ohio University Code of Student Conduct, resulting in sanctions such as probation, fines, and possibly suspension if it is in violation of an existing probation sentence.

Should you have the unfortunate experience of having a legal issue, The Center for Student Legal Services, which is a resource available to OU students who have not waived the quarterly fee on their tuition bill, provides legal representation in Athens Municipal Court matters. It is highly recommended that you not carry or use a fake ID. Be aware of the above consequences.

Rocky Horror Picture Show—Athens, Ohio 2010

in Blog // (0) Comment

Being a Theater Performance major in my Junior year of college, I’ve had quite a few performance experiences; however, nothing compares to the Rocky Horror Picture Show.

This Fall, I was cast as Janet Weiss—who plays opposite of Brad Majors in the show. Initially, I was very nervous. While Janet is a very conservative character in the beginning, she has some very sexual scenes eventually and by the end of the show is the complete opposite of what she came in as.

That first side of Janet was easy for me to tackle because I have many of those qualities. I’m not overly sexual, and I dress like an average, conservative American for the most part. I was also able to turn myself in to this very stereotypical, dependent woman; but the other side was not so easy.

It took the majority of the rehearsal process for me to feel comfortable in the more sexual scenes. A lot of times I would become embarrassed and begin to blush because this was something I had never been asked to do. However, the end result was totally worth all of the previous struggles.

When it came time to present the show, every night was packed and everything we had been rehearsing paid off, but not without some mishaps however. The first night was our first night ever practicing with microphones, and we had some major sound issues. The second night our projector ended up overheating and we performed with just the sound, but the crowd still stayed! True fans of the Rocky Horror Picture Show!

Honestly, that show ended up being our best because of how supportive and enthusiastic the crowd was. The great thing about this show is how involved everyone becomes. There are not many shows that allow the audience to be such a vital part to the performance process. With people decked out in Rocky Horror attire, and participating in ‘virgin games’ really makes for a festive atmosphere that gets everyone fired up to see the performance.

No, the Rocky Horror Picture Show is not a traditional performance. This is not something I would ever ask my parents to see me in, let alone put on a resume. Yes, we performed in a bar jam packed full of people shouting obscene callbacks throughout the movie. Yes, I learned a lot about myself as an actor and a person. And no, I don’t regret in the least.

If you are interested in giving yourself over to absolute pleasure for 2011, keep your eyes peeled for fliers next year around the week of Halloween. The Rocky Horror Picture Show always goes up at the Union and cost usually fluctuates around 5.00 to get in. They also usually throw in a Rocky Horror Dance or Die one of the nights, so be sure to get in on that too!

Dad’s Weekend 2011 at Ohio University

in Blog // (0) Comment

Ah, when parents visit. Depending on your situation, it can be a very fun or challenging time to have them around for the weekends. However, Dad’s Weekend is quickly approaching so planning must begin soon.

This year, Dad’s Weekend will take place January 21-23, 2011. Typically a fun time, Dad’s weekend happens only about 3 weeks into the quarter. Just enough time to have space from your parents and soon after miss them.

If you’re of age, many take their Dad’s out on the town to visit Athens’s wonderful selection of bars. Some suggestions are Tony’s, the Union, or Jackie O’s. Typically the Union or Casa will have an event going on for Dads, so in case just sitting down at a bar isn’t enough, there will most likely be a concert to amuse you.

If you aren’t the bar type or aren’t able to go, I suggest dinner. Dinner, whether homemade or at a restaurant, is a nice chance to catch up. One suggestion is going to Casa. You can help wean your father off of the processed food with a taste of homegrown and locally made….EVERYTHING. It’s also an exciting menu and a great environment (with a bar, if they care for a drink.).

Another suggestion is trying an Athens delicacy, Salaam. Salaam specializes in Mediterranean cuisine, serving you appetizers of warm pita bread and hummus with a beautifully decorated inside, to boot!

Okay, so maybe your dad is not nearly as granola as these places. So, if he’s more into American cuisine there’s always O’Betty’s for some kick-butt hotdogs. With a cute little hotdog museum inside, O’Betty’s is great for its history and love of all things hotdogs, and wonderfully prepared food.

As Dad’s Weekend approaches, finding things to do will be made a lot easier. On Thursday there will be a Black Sheep show, OU’s improv comedy troupe. And the University  is usually great with providing options for family events (typically at Ping or Baker) for the weekend.

So, enjoy your time with your dad and take the opportunity to show him around Athens. It’s a great time to bond and catch up in a wonderful environment!

Courtside Pizza in Athens Ohio: A delight!

in Blog // (0) Comment

Living in Athens for a total of almost 3 years now, I have managed to taste test nearly every pizza place in town. While it’s hard to name a favorite (I am a strong believer that there are right times for certain kinds of pizza places), I do tend to turn to Courtside Pizza when I get the chance to eat out.

While you can have Courtside delivered (They also deliver beer.), I haven’t personally done that. I would have to say that my main reason would be because I really do love the atmosphere. Sitting down and enjoying your meal in a booth with the option of buying more or just enjoying the game with friends, is a lot nicer than freezing in the cold and carrying your slices around with you. They have a cozy sitting area and outdoor patio for you to enjoy your meal on.  With two bars, wooden booths, and multiple flat screens to enjoy the game—Courtside tends to get a lot of business, especially on their ever-so-popular ‘Slice Night’ where a slice of cheese pizza is only one dollar.

Another great perk about eating at Courtside is that you get to see the pizza being made right in front of you. The cashier’s area is right in front of the kitchen, so you can see that everything is made fresh. It leaves little to no mystery about what goes into your meal with the kitchen being open to customer’s view as they order. They also have a good amount of options, with just plain old cheese or pepperoni to vegetarian options as well.

On game days, you can guarantee that Courtside will be packed with fans because they have beer and food. They also have the perfect location, located right at the top of Court Street next to Broney’s, you can’t help but pass it on the way to your next destination. With reasonable prices and such good food, you might as well stop in and treat yourself to a good time in a great atmosphere.

Bagel Street Deli: A Treat for the Senses

in Blog // (0) Comment

Bagel Street Deli, located on Court Street in Athens, Ohio, is a great alternative to spicing up dinner plans. While there are plenty of chain restaurants that offer bagel selections, Bagel Street Deli’s are all especially unique. Being the only bagel restaurant in Athens, Bagel Street Deli is truly one of a kind.

My most recent meal at Bagel Street Deli was as satisfying as usual. My boyfriend and I ventured to Bagel Street Deli to eat before we headed out to our jobs. I ordered the Bluenana and was extraordinarily satisfied with how well it was prepared.

On a blueberry bagel, the Bluenana is topped with slices of banana, cinnamon, and honey. Truly a sweet treat, the Bluenana is not your typical meal but is a great option in case you feel like having ‘breakfast for dinner’.

Bagel Street Deli offers not only breakfast options, but lunch and dinner ranging from a variety of meats topped onto bagels to purely veggie options. They also offer salads, cookies, special BSD desserts, and of course the giant pickles which are always a must.

Inside, you’ll find that Bagel Street Deli is not your average restaurant. With an artistic feel, you’ll see that the customers have taken full rein into decorating the inside of the place with chalk on the bricks and tin foil designs stuck on the walls. Adorned with mosaic tables and a cute window at the front, Bagel Street is far from boring.

The last thing you’ll ever be at Bagel Street is dissatisfied. Not only is Bagel Street’s food great, but their staff is always cheerful and is constantly courteous with any problems that may arise. Earlier in the year, they had topped my bagel with cheese; me being lactose intolerant I had to return the bagel and was greeted by many apologies and a swift remaking of my bagel. The cashier even brought the bagel right to my table, profusely apologizing for his mistake.

A great atmosphere and great food, is something you don’t find too often. Bagel Street has all of that and the uniqueness that is truly Bagel Street’s own. Check it out and make sure to order the Bluenana!

Athens Ohio Fall 2010 Pictures

in Blog // (0) Comment

As fall quarter 2010 ends, we wanted to post a few pictures of Athens in the fall. Here are some random pictures from around town. Enjoy!

[Show as slideshow]

12►

Athens Ohio Halloween 2010 – Pictures and Recap

in Blog // (1) Comment

[Show as slideshow]

An Athens, Ohio Halloween  is something that Ohio University’s students pride themselves in knowing about. With tons of haunted locations and extravagant costumes, many take this holiday very seriously.

Athens, Ohio Halloween 2010 was nothing less than extravagant. Court Street was, as always, extremely packed with the block party going on. This year there were many bands on multiple stages, an Open Doors dance, Morgue Fest on North Congress, and the burlesque show that went up at midnight. Plenty of things to do, with plenty of people attending.

My night started at attending Morgue Fest. Morgue Fest took place in a once-upon-a-time morgue. The backyard held live band performances with a projector that let people play NBA live (Classic.). There were some pretty extravagant costumes there (A jellyfish!), aaand some pretty out there ones as well (Ramen Noodles logo…?).

My boyfriend, John Jagos, performed (under the name Brothertiger) and while there was a reoccurring power outage that was eventually solved, he still was able to have a great show with a huge crowd. At Morgue Fest I ran into multiple Marie Antoinettes, some people dressed as Christmas lights, aliens, a Dragon Ball Z character, and that guy from Juno (Spot on, by the way.).

After that my friends and I ventured uptown for, of course, food. There we witnessed an all male version of the Spice Girls, a male Hooters waitress, and multiple Bed Intruders. We also ran into a BP Cleanup Crew, Sesame Street characters, some Hamburglers, Blue from Blue’s Clues, and of course every sexy cop, boyscout, or nurse on the planet.

All in all it was a very festive night. It’s always great to see those who actually try with their Halloween costumes (For example: not my cat face makeup.). While some say that Halloween in Athens is overrated, you can’t deny that there are some pretty creative costumes, and it always makes for a fun and interesting night costume watching and hanging out with friends.

Good Info for Halloween in Athens 2010

in Blog // (0) Comment

Hey Everyone!  I know we’ve had quite a bit of content about Halloween in Athens 2010.  We’re planning on getting plenty of pictures to put on the site so stay tuned.  I found this on the OU site and thought I would share it.  This is what the university is putting out for OU students and visitors:

The Halloween Street Party in the City of Athens on Court Street begins Saturday, October 30, 2010 at 2:00 p.m. and ends Sunday, October 31, 2010, at 2 a.m. EST.

• Bands will play from 5 p.m.-1 a.m. at two locations: Court & State and Court & Union.

• Vendors will serve food and beverages.

• Check out the Athens Halloween Block Party page on Facebook for up to date information! Maps included.

In order to have an enjoyable time, avoid problems, and ensure the safety of everyone involved, please consider the following information:
Visitors – Welcome to Athens. We hope you enjoy your stay!

• Please treat our community as you would your own.

• Be certain you know the address and phone number of your host while visiting Athens. You and your host should designate a specific public place (i.e., Civil War Monument on College Green, The Armory on Court Street, etc.) to meet if you get separated over the weekend.

Parking and Transportation

(For more info regarding OU parking restrictions visit www.facilities.ohiou.edu/parking)

• Current Students and Staff: Park in designated legal parking spaces and be sure your permit is clearly displayed to avoid being towed. Keep clear of hydrants, alleyways, and driveways when parking.

Visitors:

• There is no visitor parking allowed on Ohio University property during this weekend. Temporary or time restricted passes are not valid (i.e. Hocking College, High School Student Employee Permits).

• Visitors may park at the Athens City Parking Garage on Washington St.

• Visitors may park at the Athens County Fairgrounds on W. Union St. ($10/car). Gates open Friday at 11:00 a.m. Can park and leave car until noon Monday. A shuttle will run from the fairgrounds to the Uptown area on Friday from 5 p.m. to 1:30 a.m., and Saturday from 3 p.m. to 2:30 a.m. The Shuttle will pick up and drop off passengers at Buffalo Wild Wings on Union and the Convocation Center. The Shuttle cost is $1 each way. City buses also run to the fairgrounds. Port-a-john’s on grounds.

• If Your Car is Towed: You can find the phone number of the towing company at a sign posted at the parking lot entrance. The towing companies for University property are Autotech 740-592-1907, Athens Towing 740-594-2869, Curtis Towing 740-593-7048, and IBX Towing 740-592-2494.

• Taxi Service: Tab’s Taxi 740-594-8294, Athens Cab LLC’s 740-594-7433 (594-RIDE), and Athens GOTO Cab 740-590-4686.

Mill Street Traffic Pattern Change

• Mill Street (from College St. to Elliot St.) will change to one-way traffic Friday evening through Sunday morning.

• No street parking will be allowed.

Costumes

• Do not choose a costume that includes anything that is, could be used as, or could be confused with a weapon.

• Do not choose a costume that appears to impersonate a law enforcement officer or simulate law enforcement activities (i.e. directing traffic).

Residence Halls

• Students living in residence halls can have one guest each; they must be registered in advance (by October 25). There is a $25 guest fee. OU students are responsible for their guest’s behavior.

• Only resident OU students and registered guests will be allowed in residence halls over the weekend. A resident student must accompany registered guests whenever they are in a residence hall. Both residents and guests must wear a residence hall wristband to gain entry to the hall.

Houses and Apartments Off-Campus

• Be certain you know any guests staying in your house or apartment. Secure your valuables.

• Maintain control of private parties and limit access to your invited guests. If you need assistance controlling your party, contact the Athens Police Department at 740-593-6606. This will help you avoid unwanted consequences.

• Extinguish candles before you leave your house or apartment.

• Make sure guests know how to get out of a house or apartment in case of an emergency (i.e. fire).

Staying Safe

• When walking outside of the street party on Court St., please walk on sidewalks and not in the street.

• If you are of legal age and choose to drink, do not drink to the point of being drunk, and do not leave your drink unattended or accept a drink from someone you do not know.

• Walk with friends at all times; do not travel alone.
• Do not trust anyone that you do not know well.

• Carry identification with you at all times.

• Lock your door!

• If someone is in need of medical attention, please call 911 or use the emergency blue phones found around campus and at residence hall entrances.

• Remember, Medical Emergency Assistance may apply for a student experiencing an alcohol or other drug overdose to receive medical attention without a university judicial charge for alcohol or drugs. It would also remove judicial charges for those who assisted the student in need. For more info: read the Medical Emergency Assistance FAQ at http://www.ohio.edu/students.

• The phone number for O’Bleness Memorial Hospital is 740-593-5551.

Safety and Law Enforcement
Given the crowds participating in the Halloween celebration, there will be many law enforcement, city officials, and university officials visible on campus and in town. Law enforcement officers will be in uniform or may be in street clothes; they will always carry identification. University officials will be wearing green jackets labeled “OHIO Staff.” City of Athens Safety Teams will be wearing white jackets labeled “City of Athens Safety Teams” or orange safety vests.

• If you need assistance of any kind, ask a law enforcement, city, or university official for help.

• It is illegal to drink or possess alcohol if you are under 21 years of age. It is illegal to have open containers of alcohol in your possession in any public place, including the sidewalks in front of houses or apartments. There is a glass free zone from Union St. to State St. It is illegal to furnish alcohol for persons under the age of 21.

• It is illegal to urinate publicly.

• If you or a friend is arrested, do not argue with officers at the scene. Do not become confrontational with an officer, run away, or resist arrest. You are not required to make any statements and you may not have to consent to a search of your person, belongings, or residence, unless required by law. If you interfere with the arrest of another, you are subject to arrest yourself.

• If your friend is arrested, be available to answer their call from an agreed upon phone number (i.e. home or cell phone). If you do not have a cell phone, have a local contact number as the police department does not regularly allow long distance calls.

• If you need to find out if your friend has been arrested and/or you need to leave them a message (i.e. where to meet) information and assistance will be available in the lobby of the Athens Police Department on College St. Send only one person to inquire.

Information Provided by: Ohio University

Spook City: Haunted Athens, Ohio

in Blog // (0) Comment

If you are considering visiting Athens, Ohio the first thing you have to know is that this place is known for being haunted. Upon my arrival to Ohio University, I did not know this but since my freshman year, Haunted Athens, Ohio has been a big interest of mine.

The first thing you should know is that Haunted Athens, Ohio has five cemeteries that are said to complete a pentagram. Simms, Zion, Hanning, Higgins, and Cuckler are the names of these cemeteries.

Some pretty spooky things have gone on at these cemeteries, some at Simms cemetery. Many people say that at Simms, the owner is still found to be wandering around in ghostly form. He can be found in a hooded robe still searching for criminals (although his racial prejudices may narrow that down to freed slaves who made up over half of his hangings.). Many people claim sightings of lights, shadows and hearing voices in the late night. Some even claim that the cemetery changes location to keep visitors away.

Another landmark for Haunted Athens, Ohio is the Ridges and the Ridges Cemetery. The Ridges was a mental health institution that closed down in the 1980s. Now, one of the University’s most abandoned places is one of the most haunted. Starting out as an idyllic place, the Ridges earned a bad reputation for mistreating their patients, with many patients not even being mentally ill. Some were made up of older parents and misbehaving teenagers. Many patients are said to still haunt the Ridges with one even leaving the imprint of her body on a wooden floor after she disappeared and a maintenance worker found her a month later.

Finally, the last place to go to is Ohio University’s campus itself. Wilson Hall is the subject of many ghostly findings, also ending up as the center on the pentagram described earlier. Room 428 in Wilson Hall was the place of death for a college student in the 1970s. Later, many people who resided in the room explained weird noises, footsteps, and objects moving around the room unexplained. After another student died after apparently practicing occult, and sorcery the University explained the room as uninhabitable and closed the room down. After some research, Wilson Hall was found to be a very conductive place of psychic activity and also the previous burial grounds of the early Athens Mental Institution.

While many residents of Athens, Ohio do not realize how many haunting reside in their town, there is actually a lot going on. Many students claim to have experiences of their own in dorm halls or when they go out exploring. Either way, it’s always an intriguing story to hear and decide for yourself.

Explore Carriage Hill Apartments Athens, Ohio

in Blog // (0) Comment

Carriage Hill Apartments are a great option when looking at places to live. This 366 apartment community is within walking distance to Ohio University and has a lot to offer. Surrounded by beautiful scenery, Carriage Hill carries up to 3 bedroom apartments.

Some great benefits to living in Carriage Hill Apartments is that water, sewer, gas heating, and trash pickup are all included. Carriage Hill Apartments also has a bus line so that distance is never a problem for residents.

Other great benefits are that each apartment comes with air conditioning, window coverings, and lawn care. Besides that, there’s never going to be parking problems at Carriage Hill Apartment because off-street parking is already provided. Along with all of this, laundry facilities, maintenance, and landscaping are perks to living at Carriage Hill Apartments. If you come with a family they have a pool and playground to help everyone keep active throughout the week.

While the apartments come unfurnished at Carriage Hill Apartments, this also lowers the rate for all residents making it more affordable and exclusively your own to decorate. There are some great pictures that can be found here: http://www.wallickcommunities.com/student-housing/property-detail.asp?pid=43

On the website you will be able to find floor plans as well as the application if you are interested in residing at Carriage Hill Apartments. The apartments allow for a spacious living room and bedroom as well as a kitchen, an area for dining, bathroom, and even room for storage. While some apartments vary, you can easily schedule a tour for Carriage Hill Apartments simply by using their contact info found on the website